Ryan Fredericks suffered what was a suspected hamstring injury against Wolves last night. And he could be out for up to four weeks (Claret and Hugh). With this in mind, David Moyes should consider bringing Nathaniel Clyne to the London Stadium on a short-term deal after his release from Liverpool.
In other news…Report: Klopp keen to sell 27-year-old Liverpool man West Ham allegedly want to sign
The Hammers do have exciting young talents Ben Johnson and Harrison Ashby waiting in the wings. But despite their obvious ability, it could be argued that neither are ready to play regular Premier League football.
Now with Fredericks set to miss around a month of action, Moyes clearly needs to bolster his right-back options. It is also fair to suggest that we don’t need to sign an expensive player on a long-term deal, however.
Johnson and Ashby seem more than capable of being able to battle it out with each other at right-back for at least the next decade.
So a short-term deal for an experienced pro would make sense.
And Nathaniel Clyne’s availabIlity on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool should not be ignored.
The 29-year-old played second fiddle to Trent Alexander-Arnold at Anfield under Jurgen Klopp over the past two years. But he still has enough quality to make a difference for West Ham this season. If he manages to remain injury-free of course.
Stats
In 185 Premier League appearances, the right-back has racked up an impressive 471 tackles, with a success rate of 69%. He has also made 276 interceptions and chalked up 30 blocked shots (premierleague.com).
In those games, the 29-year-old has whipped in 467 crosses and completed 252 accurate long balls (premierleague.com).
A short-term deal, possibly even a pay as you play one, would limit West Ham’s risk. And if Clyne stays fit and produces the quality he undoubtedly possesses, David Moyes bringing the 29-year-old to the London Stadium could end up being a masterstroke.
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